For years, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, has been one of the most special players in this recent decade of football. Despite never winning the Ballon D’or, he is often coveted at times as one of the best players in the world. Now at thirty-three years old with one year left on his contract at Paris Saint-Germain, the biggest question for the Swede is, where to next?
Recently speaking to Football Italia, the 6’5 powerhouse fueled rumors of a move elsewhere. Specifically saying that Champions League football is no longer a factor in where he wants to go.
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“A lot of people think it’s all about the Champions League, but that’s not true. I want to be at a club where I enjoy myself, have a good time and play fun football.”
“If I don’t win the Champions League, believe me, my career will have been magical anyway.”
Despite being connected to former club, AC Milan, Ibrahimovic denied any talks about his future plans. “I have one year left on my contract with PSG and no other plans.” Ibrahimovic said. “But things can change from one day to the next.”
Since Ibrahimovic wants to play ‘fun football’, his next destination could very easily be the United States. He spoke with Sports Illustrated last year and said that he finds America rather interesting. The MLS is somewhat becoming a retirement league for many top european superstars. Now with Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard bringing their talents to Los Angeles and New York City, the thirty-three year old could very much be the next superstar to come and play.
As a player who most certainly knows how to score goals, Ibrahimovic can dominate the MLS. He could end up in Orlando, Toronto, Los Angeles or maybe New York and as a respected player, any team would love to have him. He could bring depth and more excitement to the league. The French League and the MLS are most similar out of all the leagues in Europe in terms of style of play, and Ibrahimovic can adapt quickly to the pace and structure.
His strong presence and influence would be great for the development of younger players. He would certainly draw viewers to the league and in a way, Ibrahimovic is a larger player in terms of celebrity against Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. He’s not David Beckham level, but he is most certainly a player that people love to see. For Ibrahimovic to just end his career at PSG or even A.C Milan at this moment, would be a complete waste of talent that has yet to reach it’s end.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic more than likely will not be signing a new contract with PSG, so therefore, it is very possible that he will soon end up in the MLS, more so in the 2016-17 season. The MLS wants excitement and Ibra has that excitement and style of play that viewers of American soccer want to see.